Clients or patients often unintentionally present hints indicating current in-control behaviors or a desire for change. Practitioners listen carefully responding to these “throw away comments” and emphasize their significance even though the patient was hardly aware that the statement contains a wealth of meaning and provides a foundation for change.

Educational Objectives

List 2 ways to respond to clients’ “throw away comments” and help them see their significance.

Identify 3 ways to respond to the “space between the words” including assisting clients to identify, clarify and evaluate the appropriateness and attainability of their wants or goals.